A common perception is that all focus on electricity in the rail industry tends to be on track electrification of the railways. This is understandable considering that all media attention is concentrated on large civil engineering projects, such as HS2 or improvements on the Great Western, Midland Main Line or Trans-Pennine, to name a few. However, this is only one part of rail demand for electricity on rolling stock, ground equipment, mobile equipment or other infrastructure on over-ground and underground trains or urban transport (trams and light railways).

Existing track electrification in the UK comprises two separate systems. The majority of electrified track is powered by 25,000 V AC, while some of the older structures (known as “Third rail system”) operates on 660/750 V DC. Both these high voltage systems can hit the headlines, if contact with live lines result in fatalities or serious injuries from electrocution, or from electrical arcing flashing in the near vicinity of the track.

However, the majority of rail vehicles and other rail application equipment operate on low voltage electricity. This can include lighting, wall sockets, air conditioning, battery charging and fans on carriages. All such electronic equipment designed for control, regulation, protection or power supply on rail vehicles has to comply with EN50155 2007. A further standard EN50121 regulates the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of equipment on rolling stock, signalling and telecommunications to enable safe systems of work and operation.

Other low voltage (LV) uses on the rail network are numerous. These include on train stations; information systems; public address systems; ticket barrier entry systems; heating, ventilation and fire alarms; concourse power and lighting. Platform equipment can include; metering systems; track side degreasers; de-icer control equipment; signalling and surge protection; cable shielding systems; electrically operated; catering equipment; and power traction and control systems. At substations there are numerous transformers, electric switchgear, circuit breakers, isolators, converters and allied power supplies.

All these low voltage applications still carry dangers of electrocution on contact with exposed electrical equipment or appliances, which can lead to cardiac arrest, muscle, nerve and tissue damage, thermal burns (off hot surfaces) or electrical burns.

Here, at Label Source, we have supplied a selection of identification products, such as health and safety signs, safe operation signs, electrical hazard warning labels, PAT test labels, plant maintenance labels and signs, microwave oven safety labels, cable and conductor markers. Examples are 110V labels for battery systems, 230 V stickers for power lighting and wall sockets, 400 V markers for air conditioning, air compressors and battery charges, and 650 V labels for two phase signalling power supplies.

When you work with live electrical equipment it is vital that the appropriate electrical hazard warning products are in place to ensure health and safety. Label Source offer a comprehensive range of Electrical Warning Labels and Electrical Warning Signs for the appropriate labelling of electrical hazards. 

Our range of electrical hazard warning products can be used in a variety of environments, both indoors and out. They are most commonly used, however, in the following areas:

• Power stations
• Workplaces with heavy machinery
• Environments with many plugs, extension leads and cables (e.g. live music venues)
• Electrified railways/tram lines
• Underground/overground power cables

Some of the electrical hazards that should be marked with our electrical hazard warning products:

• High operating voltages
• Safety connections
• Devices that require regular inspection
• Power supplies

Our Electrical Warning Labels are made of durable and rigid, and each label has a self-adhesive backing so that you can add them easily. Our electrical labels use internationally-recognised symbolds and clear, bold text that is extremely easy to read. Our Electrical Warning Signs also use clear and bold text, and are made to meet all necessary regulations including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994, and the Electricity Safety Quality and Continuity Regulations 2002. 

Electrical installations can be extremely dangerous and should always be marked with the appropriate safety signs and labels to minimise risk. Our range of electrical hazard warning products can prevent electric shocks, burns and even death be electrocution.

To discuss our Electrical Warning Signs, or for queries about our Electrical Warning Labels please don't hesitate to give us a call on 0800 3761 693. 

When working with electricity there is always a risk of hazard as workers become exposed to hazards because job sites can be surrounded by tools and materials, fast-paced, and often exposed to the weather. This can cause serious injury and, in some cases, deaths. Precautions can be taken to prevent this from happening in the workplace. As part of your health and safety training programme, one precaution is displaying suitable electrical safety signs around the workplace, warning workers of the risks and dangers of operating equipment and appliances. These signs are aimed to avoid hazards which include:

1. Coming into any contact with an electrical voltage can cause a current flow through your whole body, resulting in an electric shock or burns.
2. Fires can occur from faulty electrical equipment or their inappropriate use.
3. The risk of explosions.

Our electrical safety signs can highlight the dangers to prevent needless accidents occurring, and warn workers, visitors and the general public of electricity risks.  By displaying these signs, lives can be saved. Label Source supply a range of signs and labels that comply with the BS 7671 wiring regulations for low voltage electrical installations. The standard is based on IEC 60364, and the 17th edition came into effect in 2008. This regulation covers inspection and testing of electrical safety of electrical works. All new industrial, commercial and domestic installations have to be to this standard.

These electrical warning signs must be displayed in and around the workplace to prevent, accidents which can lead to fatalities. Protect your employees in the workplace!